CN118302614A

CN118302614A - Fastening system for conveyor belt

Info

Publication number: CN118302614A
Application number: CN202280077730.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·H·德格鲁特; G·纳扎尔; J·R·小霍尼卡特; J·巴彻尔德; G·许尔斯霍夫; M·斯普伦克勒; K·武
Original assignee: Laitram LLC
Current assignee: Laitram LLC
Priority date: 2021-11-23
Filing date: 2022-11-23
Publication date: 2024-07-05
Also published as: WO2023096962A1; AU2022398238A1; CA3237695A1

Abstract

A fastening system for joining two opposite ends of a flexible conveyor belt segment, the fastening system comprising mating sets of rigid connectors embedded in and extending from the opposite ends of the flexible conveyor belt segment. The rigid connector includes: laterally extending load transfer surfaces that interface to transfer axial tension between opposite segment ends; or hinge elements that are staggered to form hinge channels for receiving the connecting rods. The rigid connectors are chemically bonded to the conveyor belt segment ends by micro-wrapping, mechanical bonding, adhesive bonding, or by other suitable processes.

Description

Fastening system for conveyor belt

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/282,260, entitled "fastening System for conveyor belts (FASTENING SYSTEM for a Conveyor Belt)" filed 11/23 in 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to power driven conveyor belts and, more particularly, to a system and method for connecting ends of a conveyor belt body to form an endless conveyor belt.

Background

Low tension, direct drive conveyor belts are often used in situations where hygiene and cleanliness are of paramount importance. For example, in food processing plants, such as those handling meat products for human consumption, low tension, direct drive conveyor belts are used to transport items. Hygiene is extremely important, so endless belts for such conveyors are often made of materials that can be hygienically cleaned, such as thermoplastics or stainless steel.

Fig. 1 shows an example of a flexible endless belt suitable for practicing the exemplary embodiments of this invention. In a typical arrangement, an endless conveyor belt 10 moves around two sprockets 12 and 14, rollers or pulleys. The first sprocket 12 may be a drive sprocket for driving the conveyor belt and the second sprocket may be an idler or driven sprocket 14. The belt 10 has an outer surface 110 that serves as a product conveying surface and an inner surface 112 that serves as a drive surface. The inner surface 112 includes drive elements, illustrated as teeth 26, preferably equidistantly spaced from one another along the inner driven surface 22. The teeth 26 engage grooves 16 or other suitable structures spaced around the circumference of the sprockets 12, 14 to move the belt. The upper span of the belt will travel in the direction of arrow 15. The flexible belt 10 is wound around a sprocket and in the return path around a return roller or shoe or drum.

The belt is made of an elastic material such as a thermoplastic polymer, elastomer or rubber, and is flexible along its length. Examples of such flexible endless belts include THERMODRIVE series of belts available from Intralox, L.L.C.of Harahan, LA, superDrive ^TM and other forced drive belts available from Volta Belting Technology, CLEANDRIVE product lines available from Habasit, and other flexible forced drive conveyor belts known in the art.

The flexible endless belt is typically formed by joining together two end seams 120 of the belt. Methods of joining the two ends of the belt together include splicing in which butt ends of conveyor belt sections are welded together using a splice press (SPLICING PRESSES) and mechanical means such as hinge pin systems and/or articulating connector systems described in U.S. patent nos. 8,002,110 and 8,695,790, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Removal of the belt from the sprocket may be required for system maintenance, cleaning, or repair. Removal of the endless belt 10 of fig. 1 presents the inconvenience of typically requiring disassembly of the conveyor frame, movement of the sprockets, and possible damage to the belt (or at least cutting the belt first and then re-stitching).

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention provides a fastening system for a flexible conveyor belt. The fastening system includes mating sets of rigid connectors embedded in and extending from opposite ends of the flexible conveyor belt. The rigid connector includes laterally extending load transfer surfaces that interface to transfer axial tension between the belt ends. Optionally, the rigid connector comprises hinge elements which are staggered to form hinge channels for receiving the connecting rods. The rigid connectors are chemically, mechanically, or otherwise bonded to the conveyor belt ends by micro-wrapping or other suitable process.

According to one aspect, a fastening system for fastening a first end of a flexible conveyor belt segment to a second end of a flexible conveyor belt segment includes a first rigid connector extending from the first end and a second rigid connector extending from the second end. The first rigid connector includes a connection portion and a base portion embedded in the first end portion. The connection portion includes a laterally extending first load transfer surface. The second rigid connector includes a connection portion and a base portion embedded in the second end portion, the connection portion of the second rigid connector including a laterally extending second load transfer surface configured for interfacing with the laterally extending first load transfer surface.

According to another aspect, a conveyor belt segment, comprising: a flexible body extending in thickness from a top surface to a bottom surface, in width from a first side to a second side, and in length from a first end to a second end; and a first rigid connector extending from the first end. The first rigid connector includes a base embedded in the flexible body and a connection portion extending from the first end.

According to another aspect, a conveyor belt segment is provided that is configured for mating with another conveyor belt segment. The conveyor belt segment includes a flexible body having a top conveying surface and a bottom surface including a drive structure. The flexible body extends in length from a first end to a second end and in width from a first side to a second side. A first set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors extends from the first end of the flexible body. Each rigid connector includes a base embedded in the flexible body by microscopic winding (microscopic entanglement) and a connection extending from the first end.

Drawings

These features of the present invention, as well as its advantages, will be better understood by reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a prior art endless conveyor belt;

FIG. 2 is an isometric top view of a fastening system for an endless conveyor belt according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the fastening system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded top view of the fastening system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is an exploded side view of the fastening system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is an isometric top view of a rigid hooking (hooking) connector of the fastening system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is an isometric bottom view of the rigid hooking connector of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an isometric top view of a rigid eyelet connector configured for mating with the rigid hook connector of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is an isometric bottom view of the rigid eyelet connector of FIG. 9;

FIG. 10 illustrates the rigid hooking connector of FIG. 6 prior to insertion into the rigid eyelet connector of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 illustrates the rigid hooking connector of FIG. 6 engaged with the rigid eyelet connector of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a conveyor belt segment including a series of laterally spaced apart rigid eyelet connectors embedded therein;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a conveyor belt segment including a series of laterally spaced apart rigid hooking connectors embedded therein;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 2 during alignment of mating components;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 2 during insertion of a hook into an eyelet;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 2 when the hook and eyelet are in the engaged position;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 2 with the locking bar in place;

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of an end portion of the fastening system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view through line A-A of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is an isometric top view of a fastening system for an endless conveyor belt according to another embodiment;

FIG. 21 is an exploded top view of the fastening system of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is an exploded bottom view of the fastening system of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of a rigid eyelet connector of the fastening system of FIG. 20;

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a rigid hooking connector of the fastening system of FIG. 20;

FIG. 25 illustrates the rigid eyelet connector of FIG. 23 engaged with the rigid hook connector of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is an isometric bottom view of the fastening system of FIG. 20 prior to mating;

FIG. 27 is an isometric bottom view of the fastening system of FIG. 20 during mating;

FIG. 28 is a top view of an edge portion of the fastening system of FIG. 20 in an engaged position;

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view through line A-A of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an isometric top view of a fastening system for a flexible conveyor belt according to another embodiment;

FIG. 31 is an isometric bottom view of the fastening system of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is an isometric top view of a rigid male connector (male connector, plug connector) of the fastening system of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33 is an isometric bottom view of the rigid male connector of FIG. 32;

Fig. 34 is an isometric top view of a rigid female connector (female connector, receptacle connector) of the fastening system of fig. 30.

FIG. 35 is an isometric bottom view of the rigid female connector of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 illustrates the rigid male connector of FIG. 32 during mating with the rigid female connector of FIG. 34;

FIG. 37 is an isometric top view of the fastening system of FIG. 30 during insertion of the male connector into the female connector;

FIG. 38 is a top view of the fastening system of FIG. 30 during insertion of the locking bar;

FIG. 39 is a detailed edge view of the fastening system of FIG. 30;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view through line A-A of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is an isometric bottom view of a fastening system for a flexible conveyor belt according to another embodiment;

FIG. 42 is a detailed bottom view of the edges of the fastening system of FIG. 41 prior to mating;

FIG. 43 shows the edge of FIG. 42 during mating;

FIG. 44 is a top view of the edge of FIG. 42 during mating;

FIG. 45 is a bottom view of the edge of FIG. 42 in a mated position;

FIG. 46 is a bottom view of the first set of rigid-mate connectors of the fastening system of FIG. 41 in a fastened position;

FIG. 47 is a bottom view of a first rigid connector of the first set of rigid-mate connectors of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a top view of the first rigid connector of FIG. 47;

fig. 49 is a bottom view of a second rigid connector of the fastening system of fig. 41

FIG. 50 is an isometric view of the second rigid connector of FIG. 49;

FIG. 51 is a bottom view of a second set of rigid-mating connectors of the fastening system of FIG. 41 in a mated position;

FIG. 52 is a bottom view of a third rigid connector of the second set of rigid-mate connectors of FIG. 51;

FIG. 53 is an isometric view of a fourth rigid connector of the second set of rigid-mating connectors of FIG. 51;

FIG. 54 is a bottom view of the fourth rigid connector of FIG. 53;

FIG. 55 is another embodiment of the fourth rigid connector of FIG. 53;

FIG. 56 is a top isometric view of a fastening system for a flexible conveyor belt according to another embodiment;

FIG. 57 is an exploded view of the fastening system of FIG. 56;

FIG. 58 is a bottom exploded view of the fastening system of FIG. 56;

FIG. 59 is a top view of a set of rigid connectors of the fastening system of FIG. 56;

fig. 60 is a bottom view of the set of rigid connectors of fig. 59.

Detailed Description

The present invention provides a fastening system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a conveyor belt. The present invention will be described below with respect to exemplary embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be implemented in many different applications and embodiments and is not particularly limited in its application to the particular embodiments described herein.

Fig. 2-5 illustrate a fastening system 210 for a conveyor belt according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The fastening system fastens the two ends 201, 202 of one or more belt sections 203, 204 together at a seam to form an endless conveyor belt or a portion of an endless conveyor belt. The fastening system may fasten the ends of individual elongated belt segments to form an endless conveyor belt, or fasten consecutive segments together. Each exemplary strap section 203, 204 includes a flexible strap body extending longitudinally from the mating end 201, 202 to an opposite second end 208 and laterally from a first side 214 to a second side 215. The body of each belt segment 203 extends in thickness from an outer surface 216 to an inner surface 217, the outer surface 216 being shown as a conveying surface for conveying products. The inner surface may be a drive surface including a drive element extending therefrom, illustrated as teeth 219. The drive element engages a sprocket, such as sprocket 12 shown in fig. 1, or engages a roller that drives or guides the conveyor belt. The longitudinal direction L is the direction of belt travel when the conveyor belt comprising the fastening system 210 is implemented in a conveyor system. As shown, teeth 219 are longitudinally spaced apart on inner surface 217 by a distance P, which is defined as the belt pitch. Other suitable driving means may be used and the invention is not limited to driving teeth engaging a sprocket.

The endless conveyor belt may include: a plurality of belt segments joined together, in which case the outer end 208 itself is secured to another belt segment; or individual belt segments whose ends are joined together using a fastening system 210 to form an endless belt.

The conveyor belt segments 203, 204 and the conveyor belt thus obtained may be formed of any suitable material, such as thermoplastic polymers, elastomers or rubbers, and are preferably flexible both in the longitudinal and lateral directions, so that the conveyor belt thus obtained can form a channel (trough). The conveyor belt may be made by any of a number of methods, such as milling, extrusion, and/or injection molding.

The exemplary conveyor belt fastening system 210 includes a first set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors 230 extending from the inner end 201 of the belt section 203. The first set of rigid connectors 230 are arranged for mating with a second set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors 240 extending from the inner ends 202 of the opposing belt segments 204 to join the belt segment ends together.

The rigid connectors 230, 240 are anchored in the flexible band sections 203, 204 with mating portions extending from the respective ends of the flexible band sections. In one embodiment, the rigid connectors 230, 240 are anchored within the body of the flexible band section by a process known as "micro-winding (microscopic entanglement)". In this process, a polymer brush (polymer brush) is applied to a specific adhesive surface on a rigid material to prime the adhesive surface to bond it to the material in the flexible tape section. Subsequently, the flexible strap sections 203, 204 may be formed by inserting the rigid connectors 230 or 240 into an injection mold and injection molding the flexible strap sections such that the flexible material bonds to the polymer brushes on the adhesive surface, thereby causing the rigid connectors 230, 240 to be embedded in the flexible strap sections such that the connection portions of the rigid connectors 230 and 240 protrude from the ends of the flexible strap sections. Such a process may create chemical bonds to supplement or replace bonds made by microscopic entanglement. A suitable process for bonding the rigid connectors to the flexible belt segments is a thermoplastic bonding technique available from Radisurf ApS of Risskov, denmark. A description of the process for forming a polymer brush to allow for the incorporation of a rigid connector to a flexible tape section can be found in U.S. patent application No. 20210047456, entitled "composition for forming a polymer brush (Compositions for Forming Polymer Brushes)", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. However, other suitable means for adhering the rigid connector to the flexible band section may also be used. For example, in another embodiment, the material in the flexible band section may be melted and then pressed against the rigid connector(s) after the rigid connector is treated with the polymer brush to adhere the rigid connector(s) to the flexible band section. In another embodiment, the rigid connector(s) may be bonded to the flexible band section using an adhesive, or mechanical or other types of chemical bonding may be used.

In another embodiment, the rigid connectors 230, 240 are embedded or otherwise attached to the flexible band segments by adhesive, mechanical bonding, or other suitable means.

In one embodiment, the first set of rigid connectors 230 includes a series of hooks configured to be received in corresponding apertures on the second set of rigid connectors 240.

The locking rod 280 may be inserted through the passageway formed by the interconnected rigid connectors 230, 240 to further secure the connection, although the invention is not so limited. Locking recesses 286, 287 may be formed in the side edges of the conveyor belt sections 203, 204 for seating the edges of the locking bars.

Referring to fig. 6-7, the first rigid connectors are shown as hook connectors 230, each including a base portion 232, the base portion 232 configured for embedding in the body of the conveyor belt segment. The exemplary base portion 232 is planar, but the invention is not so limited. The hook extends from the base portion 232 and from the end 201 of the conveyor belt segment 203. The hooking portion comprises a downwardly extending hook 231, the downwardly extending hook 231 comprising a first upwardly extending middle portion 233 extending from the base portion 232, an upper curved portion 234, a downwardly extending straight portion 235 forming a load transferring surface, and a curved end 236 extending away from the base portion 232. The finger 237 extends outwardly from the upwardly extending intermediate portion 233 and is separated from the hook 231 by a space 238. The exemplary fingers 237 are parallel to the base portion 232 but are higher than the base portion 232.

Referring to fig. 8 and 9, the second rigid connectors 240 form an eyelet, the second rigid connectors 240 each including a base portion 242, the base portion 242 configured for embedding in the body of a conveyor belt segment. The exemplary base portion 242 is planar, but the invention is not so limited. The eyelet portion includes an opening forming an eyelet 241, the eyelet 241 being configured for receiving the hook 231 of the first rigid connector. The eyelet portion includes an upwardly inclined portion 243, a horizontal flat portion 244 parallel to the base portion 242 but above the base portion 242, and a downwardly inclined portion 245 extending away from the base portion 242, wherein the eyelet 241 is formed in the horizontal flat portion 244 and the downwardly inclined portion 245. The end of the connector 240 transitions to the downwardly extending section 246 via a curved transition 247.

The rigid connectors 230, 240 may be formed from any suitable rigid material by any suitable manufacturing method. Examples include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, titanium and other metals, fiberglass, carbon fiber, rigid plastics such as nylon 6-6, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, PEEK, methacrylate, and other materials known in the art, and combinations thereof.

The exemplary first set of rigid connectors 230 includes a series of rigid connectors 230, each rigid connector 230 having a hook 231 formed separately and embedded within the belt segment body. Alternatively, the first set includes a single rigid connector having a series of hooks 231 extending from the belt segment ends. The second set of rigid connectors in the fastening system 210 may include a series of separately formed rigid connectors 240 having apertures 241 or a single rigid connector having multiple apertures.

As shown in fig. 10 and 11, to connect the first rigid connector 230 to the second rigid connector 240, the first rigid connector 230 is placed over the second rigid connector 240 such that the hooks 231 are located over the eyelets 241. Subsequently, the hook 231 is inserted through the eyelet 241 to the hooking position as shown in fig. 11. In this hooked position, the hooks 231 and eyelets 241 form laterally extending load transfer surfaces to transfer axial tension between the belt segments 203, 204. In hooking, the fingers 237 of the hooking connector 230 cover the raised eyelet horizontal 244, the vertical walls 235 of the hooks 231 abut and press against the outer walls of the eyelet 241, and the curved transition 247 of the eyelet connector 240 abuts the upwardly inclined middle 233 of the hooking connector. Load transfer occurs between these surfaces during operation of the conveyor belt, exerting a force to pull the segments apart during operation of the conveyor belt. To disconnect the segments, the segments must be pushed together to release the axial tension and allow the load transfer surfaces to disengage.

As shown in fig. 12 and 13, each mating strap section 203, 204 includes a series of mating connectors 230, 240 configured for mating with a respective mating connector. A portion of each rigid mating connector 230, 240 is embedded within the body of the belt segment and a portion of each rigid connector extends from the body of the belt segment for mating engagement with the corresponding rigid mating connector. The ends 201, 202 of the belt sections 203, 204 may be shaped to interleave or otherwise interface to facilitate connection. As shown, the exemplary section 204 embedded with the rigid eyelet connector 240 includes alternating recesses 212 in the edge, the recesses 212 corresponding to the protrusions 211 in the mating edge 201 of the respective section 203. As shown in fig. 12, the mating edges of the belt segments 204 form overlapping projections 213 between the recesses 212, with the eyelet connectors 240 being embedded within the recesses 212. The overlapping projections 213 extend to the eyelet 241 of each eyelet connector 240.

As shown in fig. 13, the fingers 237 of the rigid hooking connector 230 are embedded within the protrusions 211 such that the hooks 231 extend downward between successive protrusions 211. Each inner tab 211 is embedded with two fingers 237 of adjacent rigid hooking connectors 230. Since the outer protrusion 211o is embedded with a single finger 237, the width of the outer protrusion 211o is half the width of the inner protrusion 211.

An exemplary configuration of a series of rigid connectors extending from the edges of the conveyor belt segments provides a reliable connection between the conveyor belt segments while maintaining flexibility in the lateral and longitudinal directions so that the flexible conveyor belt can form a channel.

Fig. 14-17 illustrate the steps involved in mating two belt sections 203, 204 together using rigid connectors 230, 240 anchored in the flexible body of the belt sections. First, as shown in fig. 14, the mating edge 201 of the hooking strip segment 203 is placed over the mating edge 202 of the eyelet strip segment 204 such that the protrusion is above the recess 212 and the hook 231 is above the eyelet 241. Subsequently, as shown in fig. 15, the mating edge 201 is lowered into engagement with the mating edge 202 such that the hooks 231 enter the eyelet 241 and such that the protrusions 211 rest in the recesses 212. In this engaged position, as shown in fig. 16, the top surfaces of the belt sections 203, 204 are flush with each other, and the hooks 231 and eyes 241 are arranged to transfer axial tension between each other when the belt sections are pulled.

In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 2,3 and 17, locking bar 280 may be inserted through a passageway 283 formed by interlocking hooks and eyes. The passageway 283 is formed between the hook end 236, the vertical wall 235, and the walls 245 and 244 of the aperture 240 portion.

As shown in fig. 18 and 19, the locking bar 280 may include a head 281 that engages side edges of the belt segments near the ends 201, 202, and an elongated bar 282 that passes through the passageway 283. The stem may be flexible to allow the conveyor belt to be grooved (troughing) at the connection point.

The exemplary head 281 includes directional arrows that indicate how the user locks and unlocks the fastening system 210.

The edges of the head 281 may fit into locking recesses 286, 287 (shown in fig. 5, 12, 13) in the side edges of the conveyor belt sections 203, 204.

As shown in fig. 18 and 19, the locking lever 280 may prevent the mating connectors 230, 240 from disengaging. The locking lever head 281 is seated in the space between the belt segment ends 201, 202 such that the edges are inserted into the locking recesses 286, 287. The elongate stem 282 extends through the passage 283 to prevent disengagement of the hook 231 and eyelet 241 while ensuring that tension forces extend through the rigid connecting element.

Referring to fig. 20-22, in another embodiment, a conveyor belt fastening system 310 includes a first set of laterally spaced apart rigid hooking connectors 330 extending from an inner end 301 of a belt segment 303. The first set of rigid hooking connectors 330 is arranged to mate with a second set of laterally spaced apart rigid eyelet connectors 340 extending from the inner ends 302 of the opposing belt segments 304 to join the belt segment ends together.

The exemplary rigid connectors 330, 340 may be anchored in the flexible strap sections 303, 304 by "micro-wrapping" as described above, but other suitable means for adhering the rigid connectors to the flexible strap sections may also be used as described above.

Fig. 23 shows an embodiment of a rigid eyelet connector 340 adapted to be embedded in a conveyor belt segment to form a fastening system. The rigid eyelet connector 340 includes a planar base portion 342 configured for anchoring in the body of a conveyor belt segment. The connecting arms 343, 344 extend from the side edges of the base 342 such that the ends 345, 346 of the connecting arms 343, 344 are wound down to form a seat for the side extension rod 347, which side extension rod 347 forms the eyelet 341 with the arms 343, 344 and the base 342. The laterally extending rod 347 may be integral with the base and arm or may be a separate component.

As shown in fig. 24, the rigid hooking connector 330 includes a flat base 332 configured for anchoring in the body of the conveyor belt segment 303. The downwardly facing hook 331 extends from the base 332 and includes a straight protrusion 333 that transitions at the tip to a downwardly extending protrusion 334, the downwardly extending protrusion 334 transitioning to an inwardly extending section 335 that terminates in a downwardly sloping edge 336.

As shown in fig. 25, the hooks 331 engage the laterally extending rods 347 to secure the connectors together. The lateral extension bar 327 is configured to fit between the bottom surface of the straight protrusion 333, the downwardly extending protrusion 334, and the inwardly extending section 335 such that load transfer occurs primarily between the downwardly extending protrusion 344 and the lateral extension bar 347.

In an exemplary embodiment, the base 342, the connecting arms 343, 344 and the ends 345, 346 can be treated with a polymer brush by the process described above and embedded within the flexible band segment 304 or otherwise adhered to the flexible band segment 304 such that the laterally extending rods protrude from the laterally spaced protrusions 313 on the ends 302 of the band segment 304, as shown in fig. 22.

In one embodiment, the outside surfaces of the rigid hooking connector 330, base 332, and hooks 331 may be treated by the process described above to have a polymer brush and embedded within, or otherwise adhered or fastened to, the flexible band section 303 such that the flexible band section material covers the outside surface of the hooks 331 to enable the rigid inside surface to directly engage the laterally extending rods 347. Other suitable means for bonding may be used.

The exemplary strap section 303 includes a tapered tab 312 extending from the connection end 301, the tapered tab 312 extending toward the tip 336 of the hook 331. The space between the tapered tab 312 and the tip 336 is slightly greater than the depth of the lateral extension rod 347 to allow the lateral extension rod 347 to be inserted therebetween.

Fig. 26 and 27 illustrate the steps involved in joining two flexible conveyor belt sections 303, 304 together. First, as shown in fig. 26, the sections 303, 304 are angled relative to each other such that the laterally extending rods 347 face the opening between the hook tip 336 and the tapered tab 312 on the flexible section end 301. The sections 303, 304 are then brought together such that the laterally extending rod 347 passes between the hook end 336 and the tapered tab 312. After the laterally extending rod 347 passes through the space between the hook end 336 and the tapered tab 313, the strap sections 303, 304 are rotated rearward relative to one another as shown in fig. 27 to pull the laterally extending rod 347 into engagement with the hook 331. In this engaged position, the top conveying surfaces of the belt sections 303, 304 are flush with each other, allowing load transfer to occur between the rigid connectors 330, 340.

Fig. 28 and 29 are detailed views of the fastening system in a fastened position. In this secured position, the hooks 331 engage the laterally extending rods 347 such that the laterally extending rigid surfaces engage one another to transfer loads therebetween.

According to another embodiment, as shown in fig. 30 and 31, a fastening system 410 for a conveyor belt has a jigsaw cut pattern (puzzle cut pattern) with male and female interlocking portions. A first set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors 430 comprising shaped projections extend from the inner end 401 of the flexible band section 403. A first set of rigid connectors 430 is arranged for mating with a second set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors 440 extending from the inner ends 402 of the opposing flexible belt sections 404 to join the belt section ends together. The second set of rigid connectors includes gaps complementary to the shaped projections to allow the ends 401, 402 to mate in a puzzle-like manner. The locking bar 480 may further secure the connection between the two ends.

Referring to fig. 32 and 33, the exemplary rigid male connectors 430 each include a flat base portion 433 configured to be embedded into the ends of the flexible conveyor belt segment 403 by micro-wrapping or other suitable means, as described above. The connecting section 434 extends from the base portion 432 and tapers in width in the upper portion. Channel 437 extends laterally across the bottom surface of connecting section 434 near base 432. The width of the lower portion of the connecting section 434 expands after the channel 437. The transverse connection 436 forms the connection end of the connector 430. The cross-connect 436 includes rounded sides and laterally extending front and rear walls. As shown, the geometry between the transverse connection 436 and the connection section 434 forms an upwardly facing slit shelf (CREVICE SHELVE) 439 between the tapered top portion of the connection section and the transverse connection, and a downwardly facing end head shelf 438 at the terminus of the transverse connection 436.

Referring to fig. 34 and 35, the exemplary rigid female connectors 440 each include a flat base 443 configured for embedding into the ends of the flexible conveyor belt segment 404 by micro-winding or other suitable means, as described above. The receiving portion 444 is also flat in the exemplary embodiment and thicker in height than the flat base 443, the receiving portion 444 forming an opening 441 for receiving the connecting section 434 and the transverse connecting portion 446. The laterally rounded channels 447 on the front of the flat base 443 align with the channels 437 on the male connector 430 when the male and female connectors are engaged. The opening 441 includes opposing terminal ends 446 formed on an underside of a shelf 449 for interfacing with the slit shelf 439 and a terminal shelf 448 for interfacing with the terminal shelf 438 of the male connector 430.

Additional mating tabs and slots may be used in the connectors 430, 440 to prevent the connectors from rotating relative to each other.

Fig. 36 illustrates insertion of a rigid male connector 430 into a rigid female connector 440 according to one embodiment. Fig. 37 shows a flexible conveyor belt segment 403 during fastening to a corresponding flexible conveyor belt segment 404, the flexible conveyor belt segment 403 comprising a series of rigid male connectors 430, the flexible conveyor belt segment 404 comprising a series of rigid female connectors configured for receiving the rigid male connectors 430. When engaged, the channels 437, 447 are aligned and the laterally extending rear wall of the lateral connecting portion 436 abuts the laterally extending wall of the opening 441.

As shown in fig. 38, after a set of rigid male connectors 430 extending from a first end of the strap section 403 are inserted into a set of rigid female connectors 440, a locking rod 480 may be inserted into the aligned channels 437, 447 to retain the connectors in the engaged position.

Fig. 39 shows the edges of the fastening assembly 410 in an assembled position. Fig. 40 is a cross-sectional view through line A-A of fig. 39. As shown, the top surfaces of the male connector 430, female connector 440, and strap sections 403, 404 are flush with each other, as are the bottom surfaces.

Fig. 41 shows another embodiment of a fastening assembly 510 for a conveyor belt, the fastening assembly 510 comprising mating rigid connectors embedded in and extending from flexible belt sections. The fastening assembly 510 includes alternating sets of laterally spaced apart rigid hook connectors including lateral hooks extending from the inner ends 501, 502 of the opposing strap sections 503, 504. While each exemplary hooking connector includes a pair of laterally extending hooks extending from a unitary base with a retention feature or latch therebetween, the various components of the rigid mating connector may alternatively be individually embedded in and extend from the flexible band section. The various components may be laterally spaced from one another within the flexible belt section to form a similar configuration as shown.

Exemplary rigid connectors may be anchored in the flexible strap sections 303, 304 by "micro-wrapping," as described above, although other suitable means for adhering rigid connectors to flexible strap sections may be used, as described above.

Referring to fig. 42, the fastening system 510 is assembled by bringing the first, second, third, and fourth rigid hooking connectors 530, 540, 550, and 560 closer to each other. Subsequently, as shown in fig. 43, the rigid hooking connectors 530, 540, 550, 560 are slid into engagement such that the laterally extending hooks (described below) abut each other. In this position, edges 514, 515 of the belt segments 503, 504 are not aligned relative to each other, as also shown in fig. 44.

Subsequently, as shown in fig. 45, the strap sections 503, 504 translate relative to each other to slide the rigid hooking connectors 530, 540, 550, 560 into engagement, thereby securing the strap sections 503 and 504 together. In this position, edges 514, 514 are aligned, but the invention is not limited to alignment between edges.

Fig. 46 is a detailed view of a first set of rigid hooking connectors 530, 540, the first set of rigid hooking connectors 530, 540 being embedded in the flexible band section and configured for engagement with each other. Each rigid hooking connector 530, 540 comprises an anchoring portion 531, 541, a flat base portion 532, 542 and a mating portion 533, 543, respectively.

Referring to fig. 47 and 48, an exemplary first rigid hooking connector 530 includes an anchor 531, the anchor 531 including a grid extending perpendicular to the planar base portion 532 above and below the planar base portion for anchoring the first rigid hooking connector 530 within the associated flexible band section 503. The flat base portion 532 extends to a mating portion 533, which mating portion 533 also extends above and below the flat base portion 532. The mating portion 533 protrudes from the end of the flexible band section 503, while the anchor 531 and the flat base portion 532 are embedded in the end of the flexible band section 503, the mating portion 533 comprising a first L-shaped lateral hook 534 and a second L-shaped lateral hook 535, each comprising a longitudinally extending first protrusion and a laterally extending tip, and forming a lateral load transfer surface. A retaining tab 536 extends between the lateral hooks 534, 535 and includes a flat bottom surface that transitions into the sloped surface 537 and the lateral tab 538. The top of the retention tab 535 is a flat surface 539.

To embed the first rigid hooking connector 530 within the flexible tape section 503, a micro-wrap may be used, as described above. In another embodiment, the flexible strap section 503 may be injection molded directly around the rigid hooked connector such that the grid in anchor 531 allows molten plastic to pass through the grid and around the base portion, forming an anchor for the connector. Small or minute undercuts may be added to the adhesive surface of the connector 530 using sandblasting or other finishing techniques to facilitate connection to the plastic in the flexible band segments. Further, the flat base portion 532 may include an opening that allows molten plastic to pass therethrough in order to embed the connector 530 within the body of the flexible band section 503, for example. The flexible strap section 503 is molded such that the lateral hooks 534, 535 and the retention tab 536 protrude from the body of the section.

Referring to fig. 49 and 50, the second rigid hooking connector 540 includes an anchor 541 comprising: a grid extending above and below the flat base portion 542 and perpendicular to the flat base portion 542; and a mating portion 543, the mating portion 543 being configured to mate with a mating portion of the first rigid hooking connector 530. The exemplary mating portion 543 includes a cap 505 configured to be flush with a conveying surface formed by the flexible band segments for covering mating elements of the connector. The first L-shaped lateral hooks 544 and the second L-shaped lateral hooks 545 are configured for mating with the lateral hooks 534, 535 of the first rigid hooking connector and are connected to the cap 505. A retention tab abutment 546 is formed between the lateral hooks 544, 545 for receiving a retention portion 536. When the lateral hooks 534, 535, 544, 545 are slid into engagement with one another, the retention tab standoffs 546 receive the retention portions 536 and lock onto the retention portions 536 to prevent vertical separation of the hooks and/or rotation of the strap ends relative to one another.

The second rigid hooking connector 540 can be embedded in the associated flexible strap section 504 in the same or similar manner as the first rigid hooking connector 530 is embedded in the associated flexible strap section 503, as described above.

The lateral hooks 534, 535, 544 and 545 are configured such that the lateral displacement between the hooks upon mating is less than the width of the overlapping cap 505, thereby maximizing the cap surface, thereby facilitating a continuous conveying surface.

Referring to fig. 51-54, the second set of rigid hooking connectors 550, 560 is laterally spaced from the first set of rigid hooking connectors 530, 540. The fastening system 510 may include multiple sets of rigid hook connectors disposed along the fastening ends of the belt sections 503, 504. Rigid hooking connectors 550, 560 are also embedded in the flexible band sections and are configured to engage each other. Each rigid hooking connector 550, 560 includes an anchor 551, 561, a flat base portion 552, 562, and a mating portion 553, 563, respectively.

As shown in fig. 52, the third rigid hooking connector 550 comprises an anchor 551, the anchor 551 comprising a grid extending above and below the planar base portion 552 and perpendicular to the planar base portion for anchoring the third rigid hooking connector 550 within the associated flexible band section 503. The flat base portion 552 extends to a mating portion 553, which mating portion 553 also extends above and below the flat base portion 552. The mating portion 553 extends from an end of the flexible strap section 503, while the anchor 551 and the planar base portion 552 are embedded in the end of the flexible strap section 503, the mating portion 553 including a first second L-shaped lateral hook 554 and a second L-shaped lateral hook 555 each including a longitudinally extending first protrusion and a laterally extending tip and forming a lateral load transfer surface. Angled transition surfaces 556, 557 extend between the first protrusion and the head. In one embodiment, the top of the hook 554 is square or rectangular and the second hook 555 has a recess 559 on the top surface to form a seat for a latch spring in a fourth rigid hooking connector, as described below.

Fig. 53 and 54 illustrate in detail a fourth rigid hooking connector 560 configured for mating with the third rigid hooking connector 550 and extending from the second flexible band section 504, as shown in fig. 42 and 43, the fourth rigid hooking connector 560 being laterally spaced from the second rigid hooking connector. The fourth rigid hooking connector 560 includes a cap 506 configured to be flush with the conveying surface formed by the flexible band section for covering the mating elements of the connectors 550, 560. The lateral tips 564, 565 are configured for mating with the lateral hooks 554, 555 of a third rigid hook connector. As shown in fig. 53, the lateral tips 564, 565 have an angled bottom surface configured for interfacing with the angled transition surfaces 556, 557. The cantilever leaf spring includes a lateral latching protrusion 566 and a thinner leaf spring 567 that extends between the lateral tips 564, 565 and is connected to the first lateral tip 564. The leaf spring 567 has a slightly curved end. Any type of cantilever leaf spring may be used. To connect the third and fourth rigid hook connectors, the lateral hooks 554, 555 are inserted into respective spaces in the mating end 563 (the mating end 563 depressing the leaf spring 567) and then translated to engage the lateral hooks 554, 555 with the lateral tips 564, 565. After the hooks 555 pass the leaf springs 567, the hooks 555 spring back and push against the longitudinal surfaces of the lateral hooks 555 to latch the connectors 550, 560 together with compressive force. The recess 559 may receive the end of the leaf spring 567. The lateral translation of the hook is greater than the gap between the leaf spring end and the hook 555. If desired, the leaf spring 567 may be depressed to allow the rigid hook connectors to slide out of engagement with each other, thereby separating the flexible strap sections.

Fig. 55 shows an alternative embodiment of an alternative rigid hooking connector 560' configured for mating with a third rigid hooking connector 550. The optional rigid hooking connector 560' includes: lateral hooks 564', 565' configured for engaging the lateral hooks 554, 555 of a corresponding rigid hooking connector 550; and a latch section including an s-shaped plate spring 567. When the lateral hook 555 passes the lateral hook 565', the lateral hook 555 latches into place to push against a stop 580 formed at the end of the s-shaped plate spring 567 until the stop abuts the stop face 581, thereby forming a secure latch. In an exemplary embodiment, the amount of lateral translation of the hooks relative to each other is significantly greater than the amount of movement in the latch leaf spring. The latch may be released to allow separation of the hook connector and opening of the conveyor belt.

Fig. 56-58 illustrate another embodiment of a fastening assembly 610 for a conveyor belt, the fastening assembly 610 including a rigid connector extending from a flexible belt section. The fastening assembly includes a plurality of rigid connection sections 630, 640 embedded in and extending from the mating ends of the flexible conveyor belt sections 603, 604. The connecting rod 680 secures the connection between the rigid connection sections 630, 640. The fastening assembly 610 may also include a bottom protrusion 606 on a beveled surface (CHAMFERED SURFACE) at the end of the flexible band section 604 to minimize articulation and prevent over-rotation of the section ends relative to each other.

With reference to fig. 59 and 60, each exemplary rigid connector 630, 640 includes an anchor 631, 641 comprising a grid extending above and below and perpendicular to the planar base portions 632, 642 for anchoring each respective rigid hooking connector 630, 640 within the associated flexible band section 603, 604. The exemplary flat base portions 632, 642 have a grid portion that includes a pattern of openings. The flat base portions 632, 642 also have solid portions, but the invention is not so limited and the base portions may have any suitable configuration. The fittings 633, 643 extend from the inner ends of the base portions and above and below the flat base portions 632, 642, which are embedded within the flexible band sections, along with the anchors 631, 641. Each mating portion 633, 643 includes an array of laterally spaced hinge elements 634, 644, the hinge elements 634, 644 having aligned hinge openings for receiving a connecting rod 680. The hinge elements are staggered to form a hinge channel for receiving the connecting rod 680.

Each rigid connector 630, 640 may be formed of metal or rigid plastic and then embedded in the flexible strap sections 603, 604 by injection molding the flexible strap sections around the rigid connectors such that the hinge elements 634, 644 extend from the ends of the flexible strap sections while the base portions and anchors are embedded within the strap sections. Other suitable manufacturing means may be used. Small or micro undercuts may be added to the adhesive surfaces of connectors 630, 640 using sandblasting or other finishing techniques to facilitate connection to the flexible band segments. The use of a flat base portion and anchors allows for the transmission of belt tension away from the connection.

In one embodiment, the rigid connectors may be embedded within separate or intermediate belt sections adapted to be spliced or otherwise connected to the ends of the conveyor belt sections. Alternatively, the rigid connectors may be embedded directly on the ends of the conveyor belt. In another embodiment, the conveyor belt may be formed by joining a series of flexible conveyor belt segments in modular form with embedded rigid connectors extending from each end.

In another embodiment, the delivery member may comprise a rigid connector that is embedded in the flexible portion by the chemical and/or micro-winding process described above. For example, a two-piece sprocket or roller may include a rigid connector extending from an injection molded body that mates to form the sprocket or roller, wherein the rigid connector is adhered to the injection molded body by a polymer brush to create a chemical bond, microscopic wrap, or a combination of both in a process such as described above.

The scope of the claims is not meant to be limited to the details of the described exemplary embodiments.

Claims

1. A fastening system for fastening a first end of a flexible conveyor belt segment to a second end of the flexible conveyor belt segment, the fastening system comprising:

a first rigid connector extending from the first end, the first rigid connector comprising a connecting portion and a base embedded in the first end, the connecting portion comprising a laterally extending first load transfer surface;

a second rigid connector extending from the second end, the second rigid connector comprising a connecting portion and a base embedded in the second end, the connecting portion of the second rigid connector comprising a laterally extending second load transfer surface configured for interfacing with the laterally extending first load transfer surface.

2. The fastening system of claim 1, further comprising a locking bar for locking the laterally extending first load transfer surface and the laterally extending second load transfer surface in an engaged position.

3. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the first end and the second end are shaped to interleave with each other.

4. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the first rigid connector and the second rigid connector comprise one of stainless steel, titanium, fiberglass, carbon fiber, nylon, and combinations thereof.

5. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the first and second strap sections comprise injection molded plastic over-molded onto polymer brushes formed on the first and second rigid connectors.

6. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the first rigid connector comprises a hook and the second mating connector comprises an eyelet configured to receive the hook.

7. The fastening system of claim 6, wherein the connection portion of the hook comprises a downwardly extending hook comprising a first upwardly extending middle portion extending from the base portion, an upper curved portion, a downwardly extending straight portion forming the load transfer surface, and a curved end extending away from the base portion.

8. The fastening system of claim 7, wherein the first rigid connector further comprises a finger spaced from the hook.

9. The fastening system of claim 6, wherein the connection portion of the second rigid connector comprises an eyelet portion extending from the base portion, the eyelet portion comprising an opening configured to receive the hook of a first rigid connector, wherein the eyelet portion comprises an upwardly inclined portion, a horizontal flat portion parallel to the base portion, a downwardly inclined portion extending away from the base portion, and a downwardly extending section connected to the downwardly inclined portion via a curved transition.

10. The fastening system of claim 6, wherein the hook comprises a straight protrusion extending from the base that transitions to a downwardly extending protrusion that transitions to an inwardly extending section that terminates in a downwardly sloping edge to form the hook.

11. The fastening system of claim 10, wherein the eyelet includes a connecting arm extending from a side edge of the base, the connecting arm including a tip that wraps down to form a seat for a laterally extending rod for engaging the hook.

12. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the connection portion of the first rigid connector comprises a shaped protrusion and the connection portion of the second rigid connector comprises an opening for receiving the shaped protrusion in a puzzle-like manner.

13. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein the shaped tab includes a connecting section extending from the base and a lateral connecting portion having rounded sides and a laterally extending rear wall forming the load transfer surface.

14. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the connection portion of the first rigid connector comprises a first lateral hook and a second lateral hook configured for sliding into engagement with a third lateral hook and a fourth lateral hook forming the connection portion of the second rigid connector.

15. The fastening system of claim 14, further comprising a latch for securing the first rigid connector and the second rigid connector to each other.

16. The fastening system of claim 1, further comprising an anchor connected to the base of the first rigid connector and nested with the first end of the flexible conveyor belt segment to anchor the first rigid connector to the flexible conveyor belt segment.

17. The fastening system of claim 16, wherein the anchor comprises a grid extending perpendicular to the base.

18. A conveyor belt segment comprising:

A flexible body extending in thickness from a top surface to a bottom surface, in width from a first side to a second side, and in length from a first end to a second end;

A first rigid connector extending from the first end, the first rigid connector including a base embedded in the flexible body and a connection portion extending from the first end.

19. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the connection includes a laterally extending load transfer surface.

20. The conveyor belt segment of claim 19, wherein the first rigid connector comprises a hook.

21. The conveyor belt segment of claim 20, wherein the hook is a downwardly extending hook comprising a first upwardly extending intermediate portion extending from the base, an upper curved portion, a downwardly extending straight portion forming the load transfer surface, and a curved end extending away from the base.

22. The conveyor belt segment of claim 19, wherein the hook includes a straight protrusion extending from the base that transitions to a downwardly extending protrusion that transitions to an inwardly extending segment that terminates in a downwardly sloped edge to form the hook.

23. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the connection includes an eyelet.

24. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the connecting portion comprises a shaped protrusion having a connecting section extending from the base portion and a lateral connecting portion having rounded sides and a laterally extending rear wall forming a load transfer surface.

25. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the connection comprises a first lateral hook and a second lateral hook.

26. The conveyor belt segment of claim 25, further comprising a latch between the first lateral hook and the second lateral hook.

27. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the connection comprises a series of laterally spaced hinge elements having aligned hinge openings.

28. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, further comprising an anchor connected to the base and embedded with the flexible body of the flexible conveyor belt segment to anchor the first rigid connector to the flexible body.

29. The conveyor belt segment of claim 28, wherein the anchor comprises a grid extending perpendicular to the base.

30. The conveyor belt segment of claim 18, wherein the base includes a flat portion having a pattern of openings.

31. A conveyor belt segment configured for mating with another conveyor belt segment, the conveyor belt segment comprising:

A flexible body having a top conveying surface and a bottom surface including a drive structure, the flexible body extending in length from a first end to a second end and in width from a first side to a second side; and

A first set of laterally spaced apart rigid connectors extending from the first end of the flexible body, each rigid connector including a base embedded in the flexible body by micro-winding and a connection extending from the first end.

32. The conveyor belt segment of claim 31, wherein the connection comprises one of a hook, an eyelet, a shaped protrusion, a shaped recess, and a hinge element.